POLAND by besides the obvious

Here you can find all the Travel Stories from Poland by Besides the Obvious. Poland is a country located in Central Europe. It is divided into 16 administrative provinces. Covering an area of 312,696 km2, and has a largely temperate seasonal climate. Poland has a population of nearly 38.5 million people. It is the fifth-most populous member state of the European Union.

Poland, located in Central Europe, is a country with a rich and complex history. It is known for its captivating cities, such as Warsaw, the capital, with its blend of modernity and historical landmarks like the Royal Castle and the Old Town. Krakow, another popular destination, offers visitors a chance to explore its well-preserved medieval architecture and serves as a gateway to the poignant Auschwitz-Birkenau concentration camp memorial. Poland is also home to stunning natural landscapes, including the picturesque Tatra Mountains and the tranquil Masurian Lake District. Additionally, the country’s vibrant culture, highlighted by its traditional folk music, colorful festivals, and hearty cuisine, which includes pierogi and bigos, make it a captivating and diverse travel destination.

As you might know, our mission is to share something relevant, something authentic, something real, something cool, something interesting, something personal & something different, via our travel stories & images. We are focusing on ideas from local sources, giving tips that are usually unknown to travelers and foreigners. Hope you will read our Travel Stories from Poland, feel inspired and enjoy the journey, as much as we do!

travel stories from poland

New air link for winter escapes: LOT adds Warsaw–Stavanger

A year-round Warsaw–Stavanger route lifts winter and spring travel plans. Four flights a week start on 24 November 2025, with morning departures from Warsaw and easy midday returns from Stavanger. Trips feel simple. Connections in Warsaw expand options. Fjords, museums, and even a new metro library slide into reach.

Auschwitz Opens a Major New Permanent Exhibition in Block 15

Auschwitz-Birkenau Memorial has inaugurated a new permanent exhibition inside Block 15, combining two powerful narratives: the fate of Poles in KL Auschwitz and the history of Oświęcim under German occupation. This renewal enriches both historical understanding and visitor experience, offering fresh sources, objects, and perspectives.

Easter in Europe – Best Destinations in 2025

Easter in Europe is a time of rejuvenation, where cultures come alive with vibrant traditions and celebrations. As spring blossoms, various destinations offer unique experiences that blend historical significance with festive fervor. Whether you’re seeking religious observances, culinary delights, or picturesque landscapes, Europe presents a plethora of options to make your Easter 2025 unforgettable.

Cheap “Coolcation” Destinations – Escape the Heat – Part 2.

In this article, we will explore some of the best cheap coolcation destinations in Europe, ideal for those looking to escape the summer heat without compromising on quality or experience. From the rugged coastlines of Scotland and the serene lakes of Finland to the charming villages of the Czech Republic, these destinations provide a unique…

“Coolcation” – Best Destinations to Cool Down in Northern Europe – Escape the Heat!

In this article, we explore Europe’s most inviting coolcation destinations. From the majestic fjords of Norway and the geothermal wonders of Iceland to the breathtaking Swiss Alps and the charming islands of Stockholm, these locations promise a unique blend of adventure and relaxation. Whether you’re captivated by historic towns, intrigued by natural wonders, or simply…

The Ultimate Gdańsk Quiz

Gdańsk, a historic city located on the Baltic coast of Poland, is a fascinating destination rich in cultural heritage and scenic beauty. Known for its pivotal role in the history of Poland and Europe, Gdańsk offers a unique blend of architectural splendor and modern vibrancy. The city’s Old Town, meticulously reconstructed after World War II,…

The Ultimate Warsaw Quiz

Welcome to the Warsaw Travel Quiz! Nestled in the heart of Poland, Warsaw is a city brimming with history, culture, and vibrant life. From its beautifully restored Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage site, to its modern skyscrapers and bustling markets, Warsaw seamlessly blends the charm of the past with the energy of the present.…

The 10 Best Christmas Markets in Europe in 2023

Europe’s renowned Christmas markets are a cherished tradition, captivating visitors with their enchanting ambiance, festive decorations, and array of seasonal delights. From the historic streets of Strasbourg, France, to the grandeur of Vienna, Austria, these markets evoke a sense of holiday magic that transcends borders. This guide will take you on a journey through some…

Tourism Treasures in Malbork, Poland

Explore the medieval wonder of Malbork, Poland. At its heart lies the colossal Malbork Castle, the world’s largest brick fortress, built by the Teutonic Knights in the 13th century. Stroll through the charming Old Town’s cobblestone streets and savor Polish cuisine in quaint cafes. Take serene boat trips on the Nogat River for unique castle…

Warsaw Bucket List – Discovering Poland’s Capital

In the heart of Poland, Warsaw stands as a city steeped in history, resilience, and a vibrant cultural tapestry. From the remnants of its wartime scars to the pulsating energy of its modern metropolis, Warsaw encapsulates the spirit of a nation that has risen from the ashes to become a beacon of European dynamism. This…

Vacation in Sopot – The Coastal Gem in Poland

Nestled along the stunning Baltic coast of Poland, Sopot emerges as a captivating destination that seamlessly blends historical elegance with modern allure. This picturesque seaside town has earned its reputation as the country’s premier resort destination, where travelers are treated to a harmonious fusion of breathtaking natural beauty, a rich cultural tapestry, and a vibrant…

The most beautiful Polish city: Gdańsk

Nestled along the picturesque Baltic Sea coastline, the historic city of Gdańsk beckons travelers with its captivating blend of rich history, vibrant culture, and stunning architectural beauty. As you set foot on its cobblestone streets, you’re instantly transported back in time, where tales of maritime glory, Hanseatic trade, and resilient spirit have shaped the city’s…

8 amazing non-capital cities to visit in Europe

Have you already visited all the big capital cities in Europe?! This is great! But let’s not forget that capitals are usually multinational melting points, and regardless of the amazing sightseeing spots, you can face many catchy tricks, standardized offers, a crowd of tourists, and less authenticity. As they say, to understand the real sense…

Bridges, Squares and Goblins. Wroclaw, Poland

I never heard about Wroclaw before, neither about its Goblins. I was going often to Warsaw for personal reasons. I had visited Krakow a couple of times during those weekends when to go and to come back for a short trip was still easy and most of the times cheap. Especially from Barcelona thanks to Wizzair or Ryanair`s low-cost…

Puentes, plazas y Gnomos. Wroclaw, Polonia

Nunca había oído antes hablar de Wroclaw, aún menos de sus gnomos. Iba con frecuencia a Varsovia por motivos personales. Había visitado un par de veces Cracovia durante aquellos fines de semana en que ir y venir por dos o tres días era fácil y muchas veces barato, desde Barcelona, gracias a los vuelos low-cost de Wizzair o…

Allò que trobaré a faltar de Varsòvia

Un tipus de llista molt personal de coses a fer a Varsòvia, si aneu a la ciutat. Em va agradar anar en bicicleta per aquí, la ribera i el passeig en bici pel riu, sobretot des de Most Gdanski fins a Cud nad Wisla, i vaig fer aquest viatge incomptables vegades així que tinc records…

It’s the final countdown

How to spend your last days in a country that you’re about to leave for good? I was writing down my thoughts 7 months ago… when I actually moved out from Warsaw and change my address for sunny Barcelona. It might be (or not) useful for someone who is going through the same one day.…

The last good-bye?

We’ll meet again for sure! Or just simply not… and it’s fine too! A last good-bye. I’m already after many last meetings, last coffees, farewell parties, last hugs… repeating the same last conversation for hundred times… And then the last hug and the last sentence: ‘All the very best & good luck in your new…

About the ‘shiny’ expat life

A shiny expat life and its stages. When I was a kid and my parents were traveling abroad without me and my brother, and when they came back home and told us all the stories from their trip and brought us Toblerone (!) that was not available in Hungary then (I’m talking about the years…

What I’ll really miss from Warsaw

Kind of a personal Warsaw to-do-list, if you are visiting the city! I loved biking here, the riverbank and the bike ride along the river especially from Most Gdanski till Cud nad Wisla, I made this trip uncountable times and having very nice memories, especially from summertime, which is actually really nice in Warsaw. Kind…

Besides the Obvious
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